Summer may be winding down, but there’s no reason to feel the blues. It’s time to stash away those Speedos and sandals, trade the White Claws for a pumpkin-flavored beverage, and, most importantly, embrace fall travel for gay men — because it’s the Best. Damn. Season. Period.
From Halloween festivities to cozy nights and scenic road trips, here are ten reasons you should embrace the arrival of fall.
1. Let Your Flannel Flag Fly
Fall’s chill doesn’t just mean pumpkin spice lattes—it’s prime time for queer folks to express themselves through iconic autumn fashion. Let’s be honest: nothing says autumn quite like a classic flannel. For many, flannels aren’t just cozy layers; they’re a nod to community, comfort, and connection. In other words, you’re signaling your “in-the-know” status while staying snug on a hayride.
2. Drive Out of Your Comfort Zone
There’s nothing quite like a scenic drive through New England to escape the city and your stresses. It’s a classic part of fall travel for gay men, especially when shared with friends and plenty of playlist drama. So, grab your gang, jump in the car, and take the scenic route through the Northeast. You’ll find brilliant little stops in Rhode Island and surprises tucked away in Maine.
3. Snap a New Profile Pic
As temperatures drop, it’s time for fall fashion: sweaters, boots, and jackets. Whether you enjoy layering up or keeping it simple with a statement piece, autumn provides the perfect backdrop for a new profile pic. Consequently, a cozy autumn getaway is the perfect opportunity to capture that moment.
4. Have a Hoedown Throwdown
From apple picking to pumpkin carving, there are plenty of fall activities to enjoy. In fact, one of the best ways to soak up the season is by checking out a harvest festival. While “harvest festival” might conjure images of America’s heartland, you can find them in cities too if you look closely. So, whether alone or with friends, indulge in some autumnal fun.
5. Wave Your Flag High, All Year Long
Standing up for who we are is pretty important these days. Thankfully, some cities save their Pride celebrations for autumn when the temperatures cool down. That means you can wave your Pride flags all year round, with events sprinkled throughout the fall calendar. So, start researching your Pride getaway, pack your bags, and let your flag fly high.
6. Peep Some Leaves
While New England is known for its vibrant colors, you can find beautiful autumn displays across the country. The US Forest Service’s fall colors guide has the inside scoop on when and where to catch the best hues. However, timing is everything, so check their guide for peak exposure on your leaf-peeping adventure.
7. Get Cuddly in the Countryside
Take your lover outside the city to a Technicolor countryside town for one of Mother Nature’s best shows. For instance, New Hope or Milford, both in eastern Pennsylvania, offer plenty of inspiration for handholding (and maybe more). Either way, autumn is the perfect chance for queer couples to buy matching sweaters and get ready to U-Haul for the rest of winter.
8. Dress Up to an Obsessive Level
You know the stereotype: Halloween is Gay Christmas. We’re all a little drag-curious, and Halloween is the perfect excuse to let loose. To mark the holiday, many cities throw outrageous bashes and host tongue-in-cheek events. No matter where you are, a perfect festivity is just a short trip away. Go be as slutty and ridiculous as you want — no judgment.
9. Let It Grow Out
No-Shave November has become a tradition for guys across the US. For a whole month, we ditch the razor to raise funds and awareness for prostate and testicular cancer, as well as mental health. Plus, a study says men with beards are considered more desirable. Who knows? This could be the start of your Bear Era.
10. Reflect and Plan Ahead
It’s not quite time for New Year’s resolutions, but fall is often a time of new beginnings. Take some time this season to think back on the past several months. Reflecting on both the good and the bad can help you move forward feeling refreshed. Additionally, this is the perfect time to start planning your 2026 travel calendar.
Extend Summer Vibes
Ok, so if trading your tank tops for sweaters feels like a personal betrayal, consider keeping those summery vibes alive with a jaunt to San Francisco. In October, when most of the country starts to chill, San Francisco actually heats up.
To wrap it up, fall travel for gay men is more than just pumpkin spice and chilly nights. It’s a season for new adventures, deeper connections, and moments that celebrate who you are. Whether you’re soaking up the last rays of summer or leaning into the cozy charm of autumn, this is your chance to make memories that are bold, fabulous, and uniquely yours. Don’t just fall into the season—slay it!